Turkey Treat Box DIY Thanksgiving Craft for Kids

Gobble, gobble! As you can see from Make It's felt feast earlier this month, we've got Thanksgiving dinner on the brain. If your family is hosting a big dinner this year, why not put your home's crafters to work by making a turkey treat box for each guest? Younger crafters can help paint, while older crafters can take on clay-cutting duty. They're easy to make and even easier to fill with delicious treats.

Instructions

1. Start by painting the top and bottom of your gift box. I decided not to paint the inside of mine, as sometimes the box's fit is a bit off. Let the top and bottom dry separately until they're both dry to the touch.

2. Next, unwrap your package of modeling clay and break into smaller chunks. This makes it easier for smaller hands to manipulate. Knead each section and then reform into one large ball. With a small rolling pin, roll the clay until it's about 1/4" thick. (You can find rolling pins, like mine, in the kids' cooking area of stores – or clay-specific rolling pins at the craft shop.)

3. Take your cookie cutter and position it in the middle of the rolled-out clay. With firm, even pressure, press down into the clay and lift back up. Use your index finger to gently push the clay out from the cookie cutter. If there are any cracks or fingerprint marks, gently smooth them out.

4. With your oven or toaster oven, set the temperature to 275 degrees F. Place a piece of parchment paper on a cookie sheet. Gently place your turkey on the sheet. Put the sheet into the oven and bake for 15 minutes. All ovens vary, so don't go too far from your kitchen – keep an eye on the bird! When the clay has finished baking, remove the sheet immediately and let the turkey cool completely.

5. Once your turkey has cooled, you can attach it to the box top. Apply a liberal amount of hot glue or other strong adhesive and let dry. Fill your treat box with your favorite sweet (I can't resist the holiday colors Hershey's http://www.hersheys.com/kisses/seasonal/holiday-products.aspx has to offer!) and place at each table setting. Why not add each guest's name to the turkey with a permanent marker?